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Welcome! Dr. Bjorkman is a medical couple here to share their medical expertise and practical experience in pregnancy and childbirth. In this week’s article, they answer the question: As a pediatrician, what should parents know when bringing home and caring for a newborn?
Feed the baby
– Babies eat a lot and parents should feed them at least 8-12 times a day or every 3 hours.
– New parents will be surprised at how much time they spend feeding their baby in the first few weeks.
– It is important to estimate feeding based on the baby’s feet, as pediatricians recommend feeding at least every three hours.
– Babies may also experience group feeding, where they drink several times in a row.
– Parents should watch for signs that their baby is full, such as wet diapers, urinating at least three times a day, and frequent bowel movements.
Decoding Baby Poop
– During the first few days, a baby’s stool contains a black, tarry substance called meconium.
– The color of the stool will change to green or yellow, depending on whether the baby is breastfed or formula fed.
– Babies may have multiple bowel movements a day, and breastfed babies have more frequent bowel movements.
– Straining to have a bowel movement is normal and is nothing to worry about as the baby is learning how to have a bowel movement.
– Parents should be aware of the range of normal stool colors, but certain colors may indicate the need for a visit to the pediatrician.
Sleep Safety
– Baby’s sleep is crucial and parents must ensure a safe sleeping environment.
– Infants should always lie on their back in an empty crib without extra blankets, dens or toys.
– Co-sleeping with your baby is discouraged and parents should avoid letting their baby sleep in their own bed.
– The car seat should also be used correctly, with the baby facing backwards and the straps adjusted correctly.
Umbilical Cord Care
– The umbilical cord stump may look uncomfortable and may even bleed a little, but it is important to leave it alone and keep it dry.
– Parents should avoid rubbing the area with alcohol and allow it to dry and fall off naturally within the first week of life.
Diaper Area Care
– It is important to keep the diaper area clean and parents should practice good hand hygiene when changing diapers.
– Boys and girls may have different vaginal and penile discharge, which is usually normal.
– For circumcised boys, applying a little petroleum jelly can help protect the tissue and prevent it from sticking to the diaper.
Car Seat Safety and Baby Equipment
– Car seats are vital for getting babies home from the hospital, and parents should make sure the seats are not expired and installed correctly.
– The baby’s shoulders should be in the lowest position and the straps should be tight enough to prevent pinching.
– The baby’s clothing should be limited to one layer and should not weigh the baby against the straps of the car seat.
Baby’s Mental Health
– It’s normal for new parents to sometimes feel overwhelmed or have difficulty communicating with their baby.
– If feelings of sadness or thoughts of harming the baby occur, parents should seek medical help immediately.
– Crying is a normal part of growing babies, and parents can take a short break when they need to regroup and calm down.
General Health and Safety
– Keeping your baby healthy also means taking care of the health of those around him.
– Washing hands is crucial and everyone who comes into contact with babies should practice good hygiene.
– In the time of COVID-19, it is recommended to wear a mask around babies, especially during visits.
– Infant vaccinations, such as: Other vaccinations, such as whooping cough vaccinations, should be up to date, and everyone who comes into contact with the baby should be vaccinated.
When to call your pediatrician
– Parents should call their pediatrician if their baby’s temperature is above 100 degrees Fahrenheit or if there are significant changes in diet or behavior.
– If the number of wet diapers decreases or the baby becomes dehydrated, this may be a worrying sign.
– It is also important to contact your baby if you are concerned about their mental health.
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For new parents, bringing home a newborn is an exciting yet challenging time. Dr. Björkman is here to provide support and advice as a pediatrician and gynecologist on your journey. Remember, every baby is unique and there is a learning curve for everyone involved. Stay tuned for more educational content from Dr. Bjorkman to guide you on your journey to parenthood.
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